Despite gains, in New York and elsewhere, on medical marijuana, in 2015 no state was added to the slim roster of those (Alaska, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington), plus the District of Columbia, that permit recreational marijuana use — despite confident predictions about this time a year ago.

A ballot initiative in Ohio last fall failed miserably, garnering support from only about one-third of voters in the state’s light-turnout vote (besides poor timing, the Ohio campaign was handicapped by a severe split among legalization supporters over provisions in Initiative 3 that drew wide criticism as being designed to enrich sponsors of the campaign, who would have received a monopoly over in-state growing sites).

Despite that setback, legalization advocates are predicting significant legalization gains for the year ahead, adding that there could be other major favorable marijuana-related developments in 2016. Here’s a brief summary of what some prognosticators see happening in the new year.

States Will Be Busy: At least half a dozen, and perhaps as many as a dozen, states could slate ballot questions on legalizing marijuana, either medical or recreational use or both. The most significant of these is almost certain to be California, which in 1996 became the first state to authorize medical marijuana use.

While it once appeared legalization forces might divide over to different versions, it now appears they will unite over one proposal, and a well-funded campaign seems assured. Backers are also encouraged by a poll showing 55% of likely voters in favor of legalization, compared with the under 47% of voters who supported a legalization initiative in 2010).

Nevada, where a personal use initiative is already certain to be on the November ballot, is also seen as another state where voters are likely to approve legalization. Elsewhere, backers are gathering signatures for similar initiatives in Arizona, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan and Missouri, as well as several other, less likely states. In New England, legalization backers are pushing for action by the state legislatures in Vermont and Rhode Island, which would then become the first state legislatures to legalize personal marijuana use.

Medical marijuana proposals are also being weighed in Florida, North and South Dakota, and Wyoming, and could still emerge in several other states.

Marijuana as an Election Issue? Election strategists are doubtless trying to calculate what impact the issue of marijuana legalization could play in the 2016 presidential election, especially since some states with possible ballot initiatives (such as Florida and Nevada) may be crucial swing states. It’s generally thought the ballot measures ought to boost voter turnout and may attract more voters from demographic groups more likely to favor marijuana legalization.

The issue has drawn question in both major parties’ presidential debates, and several White House hopefuls, including Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rand Paul (R-KY) have sponsored pro-legalization bills. Even most presidential candidates who say they oppose legalizing recreational marijuana use voice support for medical marijuana or decriminalization, and many support states’ rights to determine how to treat marijuana. In fact, the Marijuana Policy Project, which grades presidential candidates, has handed out only two “F” grades (to Republicans Chris Christie and Rick Santorum).

In another sign that marijuana law changes are likely headed in the not-too-distant future, the most recent omnibus Congressional spending bill again contained a provision barring use of federal funds to interfere with state legalization laws.

The client was charged with driving while impaired by drugs. We showed the DA’s office the client suffered from hyperkalemia, a medical condition caused by an elevated level of potassium which can cause fatigue, lethargy and confusion. All charges were dismissed.

Client was charged with Robbery in the Second Degree. He was with a friend who robbed a person sitting in a parked car. We were able to show the DA’s office that our client had no knowledge of his friends intent. We were able to get the felony reduced to a Disorderly Conduct which is a non criminal offense.

Client was charged with Criminal Posession of a Weapon and was facing a minimum of three and one half years. During an evidentiary hearing we were able to show that the police confuted an illegal search the gun was suppressed and the charge was dismissed.

Client was charged with Grand Larceny. It was her 7th arrest during the previous 10 years. The DA’s office was not offering a reduced charge and was requesting jail time. We got the client involved in a work and parenting program and were able to secure a plea to a misdemeanor without jail or probation.

Client was charged with Unlawful Surveilence. After his plea of guilty it was a discretionary decision to be made by the court as to weather he had to register as a sex offender. Through our efforts we were able to have him sentenced without having to register.

Client Testimonials

"I can’t thank Scott enough for helping me. I had never been arrested before and found myself in the middle of a nightmare. I was arrested for and charged with criminal Mischief in the Third degree which is a class E Felony. Scott was first able to get the charge reduced to a misdemeanor. He was then able to see that the case was completely dismissed."

T.T.Charged with Felony Assault and Criminal Mischief in Queens County

"Scott Limmer is a very knowledgeable Nassau County NY lawyer and has been extremely helpful to me and my family over 8 months of court. He knows how to handle the ADA and his tenacity has been untiring. The quality of his work is in the ending of the case, with justice being served and correct. We are very fortunate and thankful to have found Scott Limmer to represent us. Thank you Scott and God Bless"

F.L.Arrested for Robbery in the Second Degree in Nassau County

"Scott Limmer is a man of his word and an attorney with integrity above reproach. When one needs a criminal attorney it is usually the most harrowing time of your life. Scott Limmer makes a horrible situation easier. He speaks in layman’s terms and explains your situation every step of the way. He keeps the costs to a minimum and delivers beyond expectations. I would recommend choosing Scott Limmer as your attorney hands down."

A.O.Arrested for Suffolk County Felony

"I was arrested for a felony Mr. Limmer would not agree to any of the offered plea bargains. He was able to get the case dismissed. I can’t thank him enough for his hard work and professionalism."

D.D.Arrested for Falsifying Business Record in the First Degree in Nassau

"Scott helped me thru a very difficult 20 months of navigating thru the Nassau county legal system. His advice was on the money from the start to the end. Amicable, tenacious and knowledgeable, just some of the words to describe him…In the end I credit his guidance in helping me get the just court decision…But then again he knew the outcome….thanks Scott…we remain in touch to this day and my case was over almost two years ago…"

T.C.Arrested for Assault in the Third Degree in Nassau County

"Helped me thoroughly with all my traffic dealings. He is my go to guy for my company. Scott is the best."